Cortijos Wake (El entierro de Cortijo)' by Edgardo Rodriquez Julia

This is a well-written account of the funeral of Rafael Cortijo (1928 - 1982). Cortijo was a master of percussion and one of the most beloved interpreters of Nuyorican salsa music. He had a tremendous influence on fellow Puerto Rico musicians and in the United States.

Translated and with an informative introduction by Juan Flores, the work is written by Julia who remains one of the most important Puerto Rican authors. Julias other internationally acclaimed writings include The Renunciation (1997).

What makes this work unique is that it successfully combines elements of musical journalism with memoir. Julia gives the reader an autobiographical approach complete with descriptions of the mourners and other motifs.

An important part of this fine book is the manner in which Julia expresses his personal feelings as a middle-class light-skinned writer in the world of the poor black Puerto Ricans. Stunning in its direct honesty and simplicity of style this book is considered a contemporary classic of Puerto Rican literature.

This is a bilingual edition. There are many photographs. This is a book you will find both informative and enjoyable reading. Cortijo's Wake is highly recommended.'This is a classic look at one of the major fathers of Nuyorican salsa music in Puerto Rico, and his funeral. A lively, entertaining book, sure to please fans of Latin music everywhere!